Grand Rapids/Kalamazoo Breweries

It's not a brewery for him to visit in that area, but Old Nation may have some of their beers out in distribution, such as M-43 (likely), Boxer (perhaps) or Boss Tweed (longer shot). I'd have him pick up any of those if I were you. I'm a big fan of M-43...I like Boxer less...and I've never had Boss Tweed (which is supposedly the best of them all).

 

If you or your friend likes Belgian beers, Vivant is a can't miss. Thursday is the Zaison release (Imperial Saison). I also would recommend Dark Star from Big Lake in Holland.

 

Greyline Brewing.

 

Yes to this!

 

M-43 has made it to the West side of the state. Look for it at Drake's Party Center in Kazoo or Siciliano's in Gr. Rapids. It doesn't come in often and goes out quickly, but worth it if he can find it. Haven't seen any of their other beers in distro yet.

 

In Kalamazoo...Check out One Well. They are brewing some very enjoyable beers!

 

Second this as well. If you've never been to Bell's that is a must stop. But after that, One Well would be next on my list in Kazoo area. I love the pinball and old school video games as well.

 

Another option is Craft Draft to Go, which is a very quick stop right off of 131 in Kazoo. They have 50 taps, mostly of Michigan beer, and mostly available to go in growlers and crowlers. If you are crunched for time, this is an excellent way to taste many Michigan beers all in one spot.

 

When is your buddy visiting?

 

When is he coming? Transient will be dropping another good one soon, they are 45-50 minutes from Kzoo but they really are that good and if he times it right he will be able to get you cans of some of the best IPA's in the state.